2025 GARDEN WILL BLOOM BRIGHTER FROM FUNDRAISING EFFORTS NOW UNDERWAY
January 27, 2025 – The Columbia House Community Healing Garden, managed by the Columbia House Enhancement Society (CHES), is midway through it’s first 50/50 raffle fundraising campaign which will help fund the garden’s annual plant purchasing, planting and maintenance as well as operation of Katie’s van. The raffle offers the winner a maximum payout of $10,000 and the same amount for the Society.
“We’re excited to undertake this new fundraising campaign,” shares John Newton, CHES President. “We know that everyone who visits the garden greatly appreciates its beauty and serenity. The funds raised this winter will allow the garden to fully flourish again in the summer and will help with annual expenses such as our head gardener’s wage, plus maintenance and operating costs for Katie’s van.”
50/50 Raffle tickets are currently on sale and available online only via www.CoHo5050.ca – the raffle winner will be drawn for on February 14, 2025. Ticket prices are 1 for $5, 3 for $10 or 8 for $20 and can be purchased by those 19 years or older. Purchasers do not need to be a resident of BC but need to be in BC at the time of their purchase.
The Garden was built to change the paradigm regarding long term care to one of greater warmth and compassion, and has grown to be a place enjoyed by the community at large. Stewarded by Elizabeth E. Shopland, head gardener, the garden combines her expertise in therapeutic horticulture and garden design to create a space that inspire wellness and connection with nature.
About the Columbia House Enhancement Society (CHES): The society was established in April 2017, CHES has a unique mission: to bring to life projects that enhance the daily experiences and overall quality of life for Columbia House residents. The team at Columbia House, alongside Interior Health, fully supports these initiatives, recognizing their deep impact on residents and their families.
About the Community Healing Garden: The idea for a Healing Garden took root from a heartfelt bequest to Columbia House for a memorial garden. The garden, which is contiguous with Columbia House, is an easily accessed and desirable destination, a place to explore, stimulate the senses and relax. It is functional and therapeutic, as well as stunningly beautiful. A healing garden is a carefully designed outdoor space that supports health and well-being by providing a serene environment for relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection with nature.
About Katie’s Van: Katie’s Van was a gift from the Gibb family. This handicap-accessible bus, maintained and insured by the society, now provides a vital service—helping residents attend medical appointments and enjoy outings in the community.
